A New Blood Sampling Method for Smaller Anurans that Preserves Critical Features of Specimens

摘要

In small anurans, obtaining adequate blood samples can be challenging (Rexer-Huber et al. 2012; Ward et al. 2015). A variety of methods have been developed for amphibian blood collection (Allender and Fry 2008; Forzán et al. 2012). Commonly used blood collection methods for anurans have historically included cardiac puncture (cardiocentesis), cerebral decapitation, or puncture of the facial, femoral, or sublingual vein (Hadfield and Whitaker 2005; Forzán et al. 2012). However, these methods either result in the near-total destruction of the specimen (e.g., decapitation) or have typically not been recommended for anurans smaller than 25 g (Wright 2001; Allender and Fry 2008; Forzán et al. 2012).